Building Regulations UK requirements for hosting

[Lizzie135]

Hi there, 

I am just getting set up as a host on Airbnb for the first time and doing research into what is and isn't covered under Airbnb's AirCover and the included Liability insurance.

Would most hosts advise getting separate short term landlord insurance / separate public liability insurance?

The only thing in our house that concerns me is that our winder stair case doesn't have a handrail / banister. We will be installing this when we can but until then would you advise not air bnbing the property yet? I suppose my question is, is this a no go or can we warn the guest in the house rules and of course not allow children or pets. I've read through everything I can find in the policy small print, and gone through this notice board too but I'm not finding anything concrete on this. 

Thank you in advance for any help you can offer.

[Fiona256]

You will definitely need your own insurance. Don't be misled by Airbnb's claims that they provide insurance via Aircover. It might be an idea to ask the advice of your insurance company about the lack of a banister.

You should be able to obtain a copy of relevant building regulations on your local council's website.

As I have some difficulty using stairs due to arthritic knees, I need a banister, so I would not book your place with the stairs as they are presently. It looks lovely, though.

Fiona

[Lizzie135]

Thank you for your advice! That’s much appreciated, I will contact our insurance company.

[Joelle43]

Hello @Lizzie135 

A word of caution regarding children and pets.  Even if you state that your house is not child/pet friendly for safety reasons, there really isn't anything that will stop some parents bringing them regardless unfortunately.  All this in the name of non-discrimination.

The algorithm will still throw up your listing to families and they will be able to book with kids even if you've ticked the boxes that says that your place isn't suitable for kids in the two age gaps that are mentioned. 

Just thought you should know...

All the best

Joëlle

[Bronwyn100]

I'm sorry but I don't understand your answer. You decide who stays. Guests can't bring children or animals if you state your place is not suitable.

[Helen3]

You can state your place isn't suitable for kids but you can't stop them coming . Same with service dogs @Lizzie135 

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[Helen3]

Personally I wouldn't host until you've put in a handrail/bannister or it will just become an accident waiting to happen I'm afraid @Lizzie135 

[Lizzie135 · Accepted solution]

Thanks all for your thoughts and advice, I think we’ll wait until we can get the handrail in to be safe then. 

Thank you again!